AU2003206394A1 - Tympanic thermometer probe cover - Google Patents
Tympanic thermometer probe cover Download PDFInfo
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- AU2003206394A1 AU2003206394A1 AU2003206394A AU2003206394A AU2003206394A1 AU 2003206394 A1 AU2003206394 A1 AU 2003206394A1 AU 2003206394 A AU2003206394 A AU 2003206394A AU 2003206394 A AU2003206394 A AU 2003206394A AU 2003206394 A1 AU2003206394 A1 AU 2003206394A1
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- distal end
- probe cover
- recited
- protuberances
- probe
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- 239000000523 sample Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 182
- 210000003454 tympanic membrane Anatomy 0.000 description 19
- 238000009529 body temperature measurement Methods 0.000 description 14
- 230000036760 body temperature Effects 0.000 description 13
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 description 9
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 7
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 description 7
- 210000000613 ear canal Anatomy 0.000 description 6
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 6
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- 208000037265 diseases, disorders, signs and symptoms Diseases 0.000 description 5
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 5
- 241000894006 Bacteria Species 0.000 description 4
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000005855 radiation Effects 0.000 description 4
- -1 for example Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000004377 microelectronic Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 206010050337 Cerumen impaction Diseases 0.000 description 2
- 241001465754 Metazoa Species 0.000 description 2
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 2
- 210000002939 cerumen Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 238000003745 diagnosis Methods 0.000 description 2
- 210000000883 ear external Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920001903 high density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004700 high-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920001684 low density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004702 low-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 230000002265 prevention Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 241000272168 Laridae Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 206010037660 Pyrexia Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000002411 adverse Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000001099 axilla Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000002708 enhancing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000036039 immunity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000007769 metal material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 210000000214 mouth Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000008520 organization Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004806 packaging method and process Methods 0.000 description 1
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- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
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- 230000000284 resting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01J—MEASUREMENT OF INTENSITY, VELOCITY, SPECTRAL CONTENT, POLARISATION, PHASE OR PULSE CHARACTERISTICS OF INFRARED, VISIBLE OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT; COLORIMETRY; RADIATION PYROMETRY
- G01J5/00—Radiation pyrometry, e.g. infrared or optical thermometry
- G01J5/0003—Radiation pyrometry, e.g. infrared or optical thermometry for sensing the radiant heat transfer of samples, e.g. emittance meter
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01J—MEASUREMENT OF INTENSITY, VELOCITY, SPECTRAL CONTENT, POLARISATION, PHASE OR PULSE CHARACTERISTICS OF INFRARED, VISIBLE OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT; COLORIMETRY; RADIATION PYROMETRY
- G01J5/00—Radiation pyrometry, e.g. infrared or optical thermometry
- G01J5/0003—Radiation pyrometry, e.g. infrared or optical thermometry for sensing the radiant heat transfer of samples, e.g. emittance meter
- G01J5/0011—Ear thermometers
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01J—MEASUREMENT OF INTENSITY, VELOCITY, SPECTRAL CONTENT, POLARISATION, PHASE OR PULSE CHARACTERISTICS OF INFRARED, VISIBLE OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT; COLORIMETRY; RADIATION PYROMETRY
- G01J5/00—Radiation pyrometry, e.g. infrared or optical thermometry
- G01J5/02—Constructional details
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01J—MEASUREMENT OF INTENSITY, VELOCITY, SPECTRAL CONTENT, POLARISATION, PHASE OR PULSE CHARACTERISTICS OF INFRARED, VISIBLE OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT; COLORIMETRY; RADIATION PYROMETRY
- G01J5/00—Radiation pyrometry, e.g. infrared or optical thermometry
- G01J5/02—Constructional details
- G01J5/021—Probe covers for thermometers, e.g. tympanic thermometers; Containers for probe covers; Disposable probes
Landscapes
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Spectroscopy & Molecular Physics (AREA)
- Measuring And Recording Apparatus For Diagnosis (AREA)
- Measuring Temperature Or Quantity Of Heat (AREA)
- Pens And Brushes (AREA)
- Mechanical Pencils And Projecting And Retracting Systems Therefor, And Multi-System Writing Instruments (AREA)
- Professional, Industrial, Or Sporting Protective Garments (AREA)
- Radiation Pyrometers (AREA)
Abstract
A probe cover (20) is provided including a tubular body extending from a proximal end (24) to a distal end (26). The proximal end defines an opening configured for receipt of a distal end of a thermometer The distal end of the tubular body is substantially enclosed by a film (36). The distal end includes at least one end rib (38) disposed about an inner circumference thereof At least one end rib is configured to engage the distal end of the thermometer such that the distal end of the thermometer is spaced apart from the film. The body may extend in a tapered configuration from the proximal end to the distal end. The end rib can include a transverse portion disposed along a surface of the film. The end rib may include a longitudinal portion extending along the body The longitudinal portion may extend proximally along the body and the transverse portion may project along a surface of the film such that the longitudinal portion and the transverse portion cooperate to receive the distal end of the thermometer The body may define at least one longitudinal rib projecting from an inner surface thereof The body may define at least one protuberance projecting from an inner and/or an outer surface thereof The longitudinal rib and/or the protuberances can be configured to facilitate nesting of a second probe cover.
Description
WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 TYMPANIC THERMOMETER PROBE COVER CROSS-REFERENCET-O RELATED APPLICATIONS 5 This patent application incorporates by reference PCT Application No. PCT/US03/ , Express Mail Label No. EV222416345US, filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on January 6, 2003, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. BACKGROUND 10 1. Technical Field The present disclosure generally relates to the field of biomedical thermometers, and more particularly, to a probe cover for a tympanic thennometer. 2. Description of the Related Art Medical thermometers are typically employed to facilitate the prevention, diagnosis 15 and treatment of diseases, body ailments, etc. for humans and other animals, as is known. Doctors, nurses, parents, care providers, etc. utilize thermometers to measure a subject's body temperature for detecting a fever, monitoring the subject's body temperature, etc. An accurate reading of a subject's body temperature is required for effective use and should be taken from the internal or core temperature of a subject's body. Several thermometer 20 devices are known for measuring a subject's body temperature, such as, for example, glass, electronic, ear (tympanic). Glass thermometers, however, are very slow in making measurements, typically requiring several minutes to determine body temperature. This can result in discomfort to the subject, and may be very troublesome when taking the temperature of a small child or an 25 invalid. Further, glass thermometers are susceptible to error and are typically accurate only to within a degree. Electronic thermometers minimize measurement time and improve accuracy over glass thermometers. Electronic thermometers, however, still require approximately thirty (30) seconds before an accurate reading can be taken and may cause discomfort in WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 2 placement as the thermometer device must be inserted into the subject's mouth, rectum or axilla. Tympanic thermometers are generally considered by the medical community to be superior for taking a subject's temperature. Tympanic thermometers provide rapid and 5 accurate readings of core temperature, overcoming the disadvantages associated with other types of thennometers. Tympanic thermometers measure temperature by sensing infrared emissions from the tympanic membrane (eardrum) in the external ear canal. The temperature of the tympanic membrane accurately represents the body's core temperature. Further, measuring temperature in this manner only requires a few seconds. 10 In operation, a tympanic thermometer is prepared for use and a probe cover is mounted onto a sensing probe extending from a distal portion of the thermometer. The probe covers are hygienic to provide a sanitary barrier and are disposable after use. A practitioner or other care provider inserts a portion of the probe having the probe cover mounted thereon within a subject's outer ear canal to sense the infrared emissions from the 15 tympanic membrane. The infrared light emitted from the tympanic membrane passes through a window of the probe cover and is directed to the sensing probe by a waveguide. The window is typically a transparent portion of the probe cover and has a wavelength in the far infrared range. The practitioner presses a button or similar device to cause the thermometer to take a 20 temperature measurement. The microelectronics process electrical signals provided by the heat sensor to determine eardrum temperature and render a temperature measurement in a few seconds or less. The probe is removed from the ear canal and the probe cover discarded. Known tympanic thermometers typically include a probe containing a heat sensor 25 such as a thermopile, a pyroelectric heat sensor, etc. See, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 6,179,785, 6,186,959, and 5,820,264. These types of heat sensors are particularly sensitive to the eardrum's radiant heat energy. The accuracy with which the sensing probe senses the infrared radiation emitted by the eardrum directly corresponds with the overall accuracy, repeatability and usability of the 30 tympanic thermometer. The sensing probe must be sensitive to the low level of infrared energy emitted by an eardrum while providing a high degree of accuracy, repeatability and thermal noise immunity.
WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 3 Current tympanic thermometers employ probe covers that may adversely affect accuracy of a temperature reading. The probe cover window of the probe cover typically engages the probe. Consequently, the distal end of the probe can become disadvantageously heated by the tympanic membrane. This may cause the sensing probe to detect radiation 5 emitted from the heated distal end of the probe or other undesirable thermal noise readings that can lead to inaccurate temperature measurement. Further, current probe cover designs suffer from other drawbacks, such as poor retention characteristics with the probe and subject discomfort when inserted in the ear canal. Therefore, it would be desirable to overcome the disadvantages and drawbacks of 10 the prior art with a probe cover for a tympanic thermometer that minimizes heat transfer to the probe and enhances comfort to the subject. It would be highly desirable if the probe cover was designed for multiple stacking to facilitate storage. It is contemplated that the probe cover is easily and efficiently fabricated. SUMMARY 15 Accordingly, a probe cover is provided for a tyrnpanic thermometer that minimizes heat transfer to the probe and enhances comfort to a subject for overcoming the disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior art. Desirably, the probe cover is capable of multiple stacking to facilitate storage. The probe cover is easily and efficiently fabricated. The present disclosure resolves related disadvantages and drawbacks experienced in the art. 20 In one particular embodiment, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, a probe cover is provided, including a tubular body extending from a proximal end to a distal end. The proximal end defines an opening configured for receipt of a distal end of a thermometer. The distal end of the tubular body is substantially enclosed by a film. The distal end includes at least one end rib disposed about an inner circumference thereof. 25 The at least one end rib is configured to engage the distal end of the thermometer such that the distal end of the thermometer is spaced apart from the film. An outer circumference of the distal end of the body may have an arcuate surface. The distal end of the body may include a plurality of end ribs disposed about its inner circumference. The body may extend in a tapered configuration from the proximal end to the distal end. 30 The end rib can include a transverse portion disposed along a surface of the film. The end rib may include a longitudinal portion extending along the body. The longitudinal portion may extend proximally along the body and the transverse portion may project along WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 4 a surface of the film such that the longitudinal portion and the transverse portion cooperate to receive the distal end of the thermometer. The body may define at least one longitudinal rib projecting from an inner surface thereof. The at least one longitudinal rib is proximally spaced from the distal end of the 5 body. The body may define a plurality of longitudinal ribs projecting from an inner circumferential surface thereof. The plurality of longitudinal ribs are proximally spaced from the distal end of the body. The longitudinal ribs can be configured to facilitate nesting of a second probe cover. Alternatively, the body may define at least one protuberance projecting from an 10 inner surface thereof. The at least one protuberance is proximally spaced from the distal end of the body. The body can define a plurality of protuberances projecting from the inner circumferential surface thereof. The plurality of protuberances are proximally spaced from the distal end of the body. The protuberances can be configured to facilitate nesting of a second probe cover. 15 Alternatively, the body may define at least'one protuberance projecting from an outer surface thereof. The at least one protuberance is proximally spaced from the distal end of the body. The body can define a plurality of protuberances projecting from the outer circumferential surface thereof. The plurality of protuberances are proximally spaced from the distal end. The protuberances can be configured to facilitate nesting of a second probe 20 cover. The body may also include a plurality of protuberances projecting from the inner surface that are configured to facilitate nesting with a third probe cover. In an alternate embodiment, the probe cover includes a tubular body portion extending in a tapered configuration from a proximal end to a distal end. The proximal end defines an opening configured for receipt of a distal end of a tympanic thermometer. The 25 distal end is substantially enclosed by a film and includes a plurality of end ribs disposed about an inner circumference of the body portion. The end ribs have a longitudinal portion extending proximally along the body portion and a transverse portion projecting along a transverse surface of the film. The longitudinal portion and the transverse portion are configured to receivably engage the distal end of the tympanic thermometer for support, 30 therein such that the distal end of the tympanic thermometer is spaced apart from the fihnl. In another alternate embodiment, the body portion defines a plurality of protuberances projecting from an inner surface and an outer surface of the body portion.
WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 The protuberances are proximally spaced from the distal end and disposed circumferentially about a wall of the body portion. The protuberances disposed on the outer surface are configured to facilitate nesting of a second probe cover. The protuberances disposed on the inner surface are configured to facilitate nesting with a third probe cover. 5 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The objects and features of the present disclosure, which are believed to be novel, are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The present disclosure, both as to its organization and manner of operation, together with further objectives and advantages, may be best understood by reference to the following description, taken in connection with the 10 accompanying drawings wherein: FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a probe cover, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; FIG. 2 is an alternate perspective view of the probe cover shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the probe cover, shown in FIG. 1, mounted to a 15 tympanic thermometer; N FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the tympanic thermometer, shown in FIG. 3, mounted to a holder; FIG. 5 is a cross-section of the probe cover, shown in FIG. 1, in perspective; FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of the indicated area of detail shown in FIG. 20 5; FIG. 7 is an alternate cross-section of the probe cover, shown in FIG. 1, in perspective; FIG. 8 is an enlarged perspective view of the indicated area of detail shown in FIG. 7; 25 FIG. SA is a cross-sectional view of the probe cover as mounted onto a tympanic thermometer; FIG. 8B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the indicated area of detail shown in FIG. 8A; FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of the indicated area of detail shown in FIG. 30 7; WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 6 FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cassette that supports multiple probe covers, shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 11 is an enlarged perspective view of the indicated area of detail shown in FIG. 10; and 5 FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of the probe cover shown in FIG. 1, nested with a second probe cover. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS The exemplary embodiments of the probe cover and methods of use disclosed are discussed in terns of medical thermometers for measuring body temperature, and more 10 particularly, in terms of a probe cover employed with a tympanic thermometer that minimizes heat transfer to a probe of a tympanic thermometer. It is contemplated that the probe cover of the present disclosure enhances comfort to a subject during body temperature measurement and minimizes disease, bacteria, etc. propagation. It is envisioned that the present disclosure finds application for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases, 15 body ailments, etc. of a subject. It is further envisioned that the principles relating to the probe cover disclosed include easy and efficient storage thereof such as, for example, stacking and nesting of multiple probe covers. In the discussion that follows, the tenn "proximal" will refer to the portion of a structure that is closer to a practitioner, while the term "distal" will refer to the portion that 20 is further from the practitioner. As used herein, the term "subject" refers to a human patient or other animal having its body temperature measured. According to the present disclosure, the term "practitioner" refers to a doctor, nurse, parent or other care provider utilizing a tympanic thermometer to measure a subject's body temperature, and may include support personnel. 25 The component portions of the probe cover, which is disposable, are fabricated from materials suitable for measuring body temperature via the tympanic membrane with a tympanic thermometer measuring apparatus. These materials may include, for example, plastic materials, such as, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, etc., depending on the particular temperature measurement application and/or preference of a practitioner. For 30 example, a body of the probe cover can be fabricated from high density polyethylene
(HDPE).
WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 7 The probe cover has a window portion or film that can be fabricated from a material substantially transparent to infrared radiation and impervious to moisture, ear wax, bacteria, etc. The film, for example, is fabricated from low density polyethylene (LDPE) and has a thickness in the range of 0.0005 to 0.001 inches, although other ranges are contemplated. 5 The film may be semi-rigid or flexible, and can be monolithically formed with the remaining portion of the probe cover or integrally connected thereto via, for example, thermal welding, etc. One skilled in the art, however, will realize that other materials and fabrication methods suitable for assembly and manufacture of the probe cover, in accordance with the present disclosure, also would be appropriate. 10 Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, which are illustrated in the accompanying figures. Turning now to the figures wherein like components are designated by like reference numerals throughout the several views and initially to FIGS. 1-4, there is illustrated a probe cover 20, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. 15 Probe cover 20 defines a longitudinal axis x and includes a cylindrical tubular body 22, which extends in a tapered configuration from a proximal end 24 to a distal end 26. This design advantageously enhances comfort to a subject (not shown) during a temperature measurement procedure. It is contemplated that probe cover 20 may be generally cylindrical, frustoconical or otherwise tapered or curved for insertion within the ear of the 20 subject. Proximal end 24 defines an opening 28 configured for receipt of a distal end-30 of a tympanic thermometer 32, such as, for example, a heat sensing probe 34. Heat sensing probe 34 is configured to detect infrared energy emitted by the tympanic membrane of the subject. It is contemplated that tympanic thermometer 32 may include a waveguide to 25 facilitate sensing of the tympanic membrane heat energy. Tympanic thermometer 32 is releasably mounted in a holder 33 for storage in contemplation for use. Tympanic thermometer 32 and holder 33 may be fabricated from semi-rigid, rigid plastic and/or metal materials suitable for temperature measurement and related use. It is envisioned that holder 33 may include the electronics necessary to facilitate powering of tympanic thermometer 30 32, including, for example, battery charging capability, etc. Distal end 26 is substantially enclosed by a film 36. Film 36 is substantially transparent to infrared radiation and configured to facilitate sensing of infrared emissions by heat sensing probe 34. Film 36 is advantageously impervious to ear wax, moisture and WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 8 bacteria to prevent disease propagation. Distal end 26 includes end ribs 38 (FIG. 5) disposed about an inner circumferential surface 40 of tubular body 22. End ribs 38 are configured to engage heat sensing probe 34 such that heat sensing probe 34 is spaced apart from film 36, as will be discussed. As probe cover 20 is mounted onto heat sensing probe 5 34, end ribs 38 deform to cause film 36 to become radially taught, smooth and free of wrinkles. This configuration advantageously minimizes heat transfer to heat sensing probe 34 to avoid distorted readings and interference from thermal noise. Thus, accuracy is improved during temperature measurement. End ribs 38 provide strength to probe cover 20 facilitating compliance of distal end 26 for enhancing comfort to the subject during insertion 10 into an ear canal of the subject. Tubular body 22 has an outer circumferential surface 42. Outer circumferential surface 42 includes an arcuate surface 44 adjacent distal end 26. Arcuate surface 44 enhances comfort and facilitates insertion of probe cover 20 with the ear canal. Arcuate surface 44 may have varying degrees of curvature according to the particular requirements 15 of a temperature measurement application. Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, end ribs 38 have a longitudinal portion 46 extending proximally along inner circumferential surface 40 of tubular body 22. Longitudinal portion 46 projects a thickness a and extends a length b along inner surface 40. Thickness a and length b facilitate support and engagement with heat sensing probe 34. It is envisioned that 20 longitudinal portion 46 may have various thickness and length according to the particular temperature measurement application. End ribs 38 have a transverse portion 50 projecting along a transverse surface 51, relative to longitudinal axis x, of film 36. Transverse portion 50 projects a thickness c and extends a length d along transverse surface 51 toward longitudinal axis x. Thickness c and 25 length d facilitate support and engagement with heat sensing probe 34. It is envisioned that transverse portion 50 may have various thickness and length. Longitudinal portion 46 and transverse portion 50 are configured to receivably engage heat sensing probe 34 for support therein such that heat sensing probe 34 is spaced apart from film 36. Thickness d provides the depth necessary to create an air/fluid gap or 30 cavity between heat sensing probe 34 and film 36. This configuration prevents undesired engagement of film 36 with heat sensing probe 34. Advantageously, this design improves accuracy of temperature measurements and avoids distorted readings due to thermal noise, etc. It is contemplated that probe cover 20 may employ one or a plurality of end ribs 38.
WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 9 Referring to FIGS. 7-9, body 22 defines longitudinal ribs 52 projecting from inner circumferential surface 40 and being proximally spaced from distal end 26. Longitudinal ribs 52 project a thickness e and extend a length f from inner circumferential surface 40. Longitudinal ribs 52 define a transverse face 53 that is configured to engage heat sensing 5 probe 34. Thickness e, lengthf and transverse face 53 facilitate retention of probe cover 20 with heat sensing probe 34. Longitudinal ribs 52 also provide a gap of separation between heat sensing probe 34 and outer circumferential surface 42, which is in close proximity to the tympanic membrane. This configuration minimizes undesirable heating of heat sensing probe 34. It is contemplated that one or a plurality of longitudinal ribs 52 may be used. 10 As shown at FIGS. 7, 8, 8A and 8B, body 22 defines inner protuberances 54 projecting from inner circumferential surface 40 and being proximally spaced from distal end 26. Inner protuberances 54 have an elliptical configuration including a width g (FIG. 8 shows V g due to the cross-section view) that is relatively larger than a height h. Inner protuberances 54 have a radial curvature projecting a thickness i from inner circumferential 15 surface 40 for engaging heat sensing probe 34. Inner protuberances 54 facilitate retention of probe cover 20 with heat sensing probe 34. Inner protuberances 54 provide a gap 55 of separation between heat sensing probe 34 and the tympanic membrane. This configuration minimizes undesired heating of heat sensing probe 34. It is contemplated that one of a plurality of inner protuberances 54 may be used. Longitudinal ribs 52 and inner 20 protuberances 54 may be variously dimensioned according to the particular requirements of a temperature measurement application. Body 22 defines outer protuberances 56 projecting from outer circumferential surface 42 and being proximally spaced from distal end 26. Outer protuberances 56 have a width j that is relatively smaller than a height k. Outer protuberances 56 have a radial 25 curvature projecting a thickness I from outer circumferential surface 42. Outer protuberances 56 facilitate stacking and resting of multiple probe covers 20 for storage, as will be discussed. It is contemplated that one or a plurality of protuberances 56 may be used. Probe cover 20 includes a flange 58 disposed adjacent proximal end 24. Flange 58 30 is formed about the circumference of proximal end 24 providing strength and stability for mounting of probe cover 20 with tympanic thermometer 32. Flange 58 also facilitates packaging of multiple probe covers, as will be discussed.
WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 10 Referring to FIGS. 10-12, probe covers 20, similar to that described, are fabricated, prepared for storage, shipment and use. It is envisioned that probe covers 20 may be sterilized. Probe covers 20 are provided via a cassette 60. Cassette 60, including probe covers 20, are fabricated for releasable attachment therewith. Flange 58 of probe covers 20 5 is attached to cassette 60 via stems 62. Stems 62 are frangible such that a probe cover 20 is removed from cassette 60 by twisting probe cover 20, in the direction shown by arrows A. Twist or rotation of probe cover 20 causes stems 62 to plastically deform and break from cassette 60. Other methods of manipulation of probe covers 20 may be used for removal. Cassette 60 can be discarded after probe covers 20 are removed. 10 Probe covers 20 are attached and stored for easy and efficient use with tympanic thermometer 32 (FIG. 3). Probe covers 20 are configured for nesting with a second, third, fourth, etc. probe cover 20. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, a first probe cover 20a is nested with a second probe cover 20b in a stacked configuration such that inner protuberances 54 of first probe cover 20a are caused to engage distal end 26 of probe cover 15 20b. Outer protuberances 56 of probe cover 20b are caused to engage longitudinal ribs 52 of probe cover 20a. This configuration facilitates nesting of multiple probe covers 20. Engagement of protuberances 54, 56 with an adjacent stacked probe cover 20 facilitates sufficient retention between probe covers 20a,b for nesting. This design also prevents probe cover 20b from becoming too far imbedded in adjacent probe cover 20a such that separation 20 would not be possible. Tympanic thermometer 32 is manipulated and removed from holder 33. With probe covers 20a and 20b in a nested configuration, heat sensing probe 34 of tympanic thermometer 32 is inserted within probe cover 20b. Inner protuberances 54, longitudinal ribs 52 and end ribs 38 engage heat sensing probe 34 for retention with probe cover 20b. 25 This configuration provides sufficient retention between heat sensing probe 34 and probe cover 20b so that probe cover 20b is retained with heat sensing probe 34 and probe cover 20b is separated from probe cover 20a. Thus, the retention strength of inner protuberances 54, longitudinal ribs 52 and end ribs 38 with heat sensing probe 34 is greater than the retention strength between protuberances 54, 56 and adjacent probe cover 20a. 30 Probe cover 20b is mounted with heat sensing probe 34 and film 36 is separated from direct engagement with heat sensing probe 34 via the air gap 55 created therebetween (FIGS. SA and 8B). End ribs 38 engage heat sensing probe 34 to form the air gap 55 between probe 34 and film 36. This prevents undesired heat transfer to probe 34 to avoid WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 11 distorted readings and thermal noise interference. This configuration advantageously facilitates a more accurate temperature measurement. Longitudinal ribs 52, inner protuberances 54 and outer protuberances 56 similarly prevent heat transfer to heat transfer probe 34 and provide retention strength therewith. 5 In operation, to measure a subject's (not shown) body temperature, a practitioner (not shown) pulls the subject's ear back gently to straighten the ear canal so that heat sensing probe 34 can visualize the tympanic membrane for reading body temperature via infrared emissions. Tympanic thermometer 32 is manipulated by the practitioner such that a portion of probe cover 20, mounted to heat sensing probe 34, is easily and comfortably 10 inserted within the subject's outer ear canal. Heat sensing probe 34 is properly positioned to sense infrared emissions from the tympanic membrane that reflect the subject's body temperature. Infrared light emitted from the tympanic membrane passes through film 36 and is directed to heat sensing probe 34. The practitioner presses button 64 of tympanic thermometer 32 for a sufficient 15 period of time (typically 3-10 seconds) such that heat sensing probe 34 accurately senses infrared emissions from the tympanic membrane. Microelectronics of tympanic thermometer 32 process electronic signals provided by heat sensing probe 34 to determine the subject's body temperature. The microelectronics cause tympanic thermometer 32 to render body temperature measurement in a few seconds or less. Probe cover 20 is removed 20 from heat sensing probe 34 and discarded. Tympanic thermometer 32 may be reused and another probe cover, such as, probe cover 20a may be mounted to heat sensing probe 34. Thus, probe covers 20 provide a sanitary barrier to heat sensing probe 34 to prevent disease propagation from bacteria, etc. Other methods of use of tympanic thermometer 32 and probe cover 20 are envisioned, such 25 as, for example, alternative positioning, orientation, etc. It will be understood that various modifications may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplification of the various embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.
Claims (20)
1. A probe cover comprising: a tubular body extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the proximal 5 end defining an opening configured for receipt of a distal end of a thermometer, and the distal end of the tubular body being substantially enclosed by a film, the distal end including at least one end rib disposed about an inner circumference thereof, the at least one end rib configured to engage the distal end of the thermometer such that the distal end of the thermometer is spaced apart from the film. 10
2. A probe cover as recited in claim 1, wherein an outer circumference of the distal end of the body has an arcuate surface.
3. A probe cover as recited in claim 1, wherein the distal end of the body includes a 15 plurality of end ribs disposed about the inner circumference thereof.
4. A probe cover as recited in claim 1, wherein the end rib includes a transverse portion disposed along a surface of the film. 20
5. A probe cover as recited in claim 1, wherein the end rib includes a longitudinal portion extending along the body.
6. A probe cover as recited in claim 1, wherein the end rib includes a longitudinal portion extending proximally along the body and a transverse portion projecting along a 25 surface of the film such that the longitudinal portion and the transverse portion cooperate to receive the distal end of the thermometer. WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 13
7. A probe cover as recited in claim 1, wherein the body defines at least one longitudinal rib projecting from an inner surface thereof and being proximally spaced from the distal end of the body. 5
8. A probe cover as recited in claim 1, wherein the body defines a plurality of longitudinal ribs projecting from an inner circumferential surface thereof, the longitudinal ribs being proximally spaced from the distal end of the body.
9. A probe cover as recited in claim 8, wherein the longitudinal ribs are configured to 10 facilitate nesting of a second probe cover.
10. A probe cover as recited in claim 1, wherein the body defines at least one protuberance projecting from an inner surface thereof, the least one protuberance being proximally spaced from the distal end of the body. 15
11. A probe cover as recited in claim 1, wherein the body defines a plurality of protuberances projecting from an inner circumferential surface thereof, the plurality of protuberances being proximally spaced from the distal end of the body.
12. A probe cover as recited in claim 11, wherein the protuberances are configured to 20 facilitate nesting of a second probe cover.
13. A probe cover as recited in claim 1, wherein the body defines at least one protuberance projecting from an outer surface thereof, the at least one protuberance being proximally spaced from the distal end of the body. 25 WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 14
14. A probe cover as recited in claim 1, wherein the body defines a plurality of protuberances projecting from an outer circumferential surface thereof, the plurality of protuberances being proximally spaced from the distal end of the body. 5
15. A probe cover as recited in claim 14, wherein the protuberances are configured to facilitate nesting of a second probe cover.
16. A probe cover as recited in claim 15, wherein the body defines a plurality of protuberances projecting from an inner surface thereof and being proximally spaced from 10 the distal end of the body, the protuberances being configured to facilitate nesting with a third probe cover.
17. A probe cover as recited in claim 1, wherein the body extends in a tapered configuration from the proximal end to the distal end. 15
18. A probe cover comprising: I a tubular body portion extending in a tapered configuration from a proximal end to a distal end, the proximal end defining an opening configured for receipt of a distal end of a tympanic thermometer, and 20 the distal end being substantially enclosed by a film and including a plurality of end ribs disposed about an inner circumference thereof, the end ribs having a longitudinal portion extending proximally along the body portion and a transverse portion projecting along a transverse surface of the film, the longitudinal portion and the transverse portion being configured to receivably engage the 25 distal end of the tympanic thermometer for support therein such that the distal end of the tympanic thermometer is spaced apart from the film. WO 2004/063686 PCT/US2003/000224 15
19. A probe cover comprising: a tubular body portion extending in a tapered configuration from a proximal end to a distal end, the proximal end defining an opening configured for receipt of a tympanic thermometer, and 5 the body portion defining a plurality of protuberances projecting from an inner surface and an outer surface of the body portion, the protuberances being proximally spaced from the distal end and disposed circumferentially about a wall of the body portion, the protuberances disposed on the outer surface being configured to facilitate nesting of a second probe cover and the protuberances disposed on the inner surface being configured to 10 facilitate nesting with a third probe cover.
20. A probe cover comprising: a tubular body extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the proximal end defining an opening configured for receipt of a distal end of a thermometer, and 15 the distal end of the tubular body being substantially enclosed by a film, whereby the film is stretched upon receipt of the distal end of the thermometer.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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PCT/US2003/000224 WO2004063686A1 (en) | 2003-01-06 | 2003-01-06 | Tympanic thermometer probe cover |
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AU2003206394A1 true AU2003206394A1 (en) | 2004-08-10 |
AU2003206394B2 AU2003206394B2 (en) | 2008-04-24 |
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AU2003206394A Expired AU2003206394B2 (en) | 2003-01-06 | 2003-01-06 | Tympanic thermometer probe cover |
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US (2) | US7237949B2 (en) |
EP (2) | EP1860413B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP4394579B2 (en) |
CN (1) | CN1720429B (en) |
AT (2) | ATE468528T1 (en) |
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CA (1) | CA2512080C (en) |
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DE (2) | DE60315895T2 (en) |
DK (2) | DK1860413T3 (en) |
ES (2) | ES2290426T3 (en) |
HK (1) | HK1076308A1 (en) |
MX (1) | MXPA05007263A (en) |
NO (1) | NO20053736L (en) |
NZ (1) | NZ540636A (en) |
PT (2) | PT1860413E (en) |
SI (1) | SI1581785T1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2004063686A1 (en) |
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2003
- 2003-01-06 ES ES03703692T patent/ES2290426T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-01-06 DE DE60315895T patent/DE60315895T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-01-06 PT PT07114705T patent/PT1860413E/en unknown
- 2003-01-06 NZ NZ540636A patent/NZ540636A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2003-01-06 AT AT07114705T patent/ATE468528T1/en active
- 2003-01-06 SI SI200330968T patent/SI1581785T1/en unknown
- 2003-01-06 BR BR0317767-0A patent/BR0317767A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2003-01-06 DK DK07114705.2T patent/DK1860413T3/en active
- 2003-01-06 US US10/538,314 patent/US7237949B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-01-06 WO PCT/US2003/000224 patent/WO2004063686A1/en active Application Filing
- 2003-01-06 AT AT03703692T patent/ATE371173T1/en active
- 2003-01-06 JP JP2004566383A patent/JP4394579B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2003-01-06 EP EP07114705A patent/EP1860413B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-01-06 MX MXPA05007263A patent/MXPA05007263A/en active IP Right Grant
- 2003-01-06 AU AU2003206394A patent/AU2003206394B2/en not_active Expired
- 2003-01-06 EP EP03703692A patent/EP1581785B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-01-06 PT PT03703692T patent/PT1581785E/en unknown
- 2003-01-06 DK DK03703692T patent/DK1581785T3/en active
- 2003-01-06 CA CA2512080A patent/CA2512080C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-01-06 CN CN038257645A patent/CN1720429B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2003-01-06 ES ES07114705T patent/ES2345678T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-01-06 DE DE60332674T patent/DE60332674D1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2005
- 2005-08-03 NO NO20053736A patent/NO20053736L/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2005-11-25 HK HK05110789A patent/HK1076308A1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
-
2006
- 2006-12-06 US US11/567,434 patent/US7520671B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2007
- 2007-11-02 CY CY20071101412T patent/CY1107788T1/en unknown
-
2010
- 2010-08-05 CY CY20101100735T patent/CY1111218T1/en unknown
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